Lung infections are diseases that occur concerning the lower respiratory tract. The leading cause of these infections is the number of lung viruses and bacteria. Lung diseases, which usually develop after influenza and similar infectious diseases, can cause severe problems in people with low body resistance. Therefore, applying correct diagnosis and treatment methods is of great importance.
What Are Lung Infections?
Lung infections are diseases associated with various bacteria and viruses collecting in the lungs and causing problems. It can lead to severe complications in children and the elderly with weakened immune systems. Some patients develop respiratory problems due to lung inflammation. In mild cases, symptoms appear late, usually causing cough and chest pain. However, it can be more severe in elderly patients, and hospitalization may be required for treatment in such cases.
Lung infections are broadly divided into three types. These types are as follows:
Acute Bronchitis: Acute bronchitis is caused by bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms that cause flu. Bronchial tubes are predisposed to inflammation during air transport in the lungs.
Bronchiolitis: Bronchiolitis, which is more common in infants, can improve with regular care and treatment. However, since it causes infant malnutrition, it can lead to shortness of breath if left untreated.
Pneumonia: Pneumonia, which can be viral or bacterial, is an inflammation of the ling vesicles. Inflammation leads to the excess fluid formation in the lungs and therefore causes a defect in oxygen transport. As a result, many tissues and organs may lose function due to insufficient oxygen.
What Are the Symptoms of Lung Infections?
The most common symptoms of lung infections are:
- Weakness
- Fever
- Sweating
- Anorexia
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent cough
- Chest pain
- Arrhythmia
- Sputum discharge
- Joint and muscle pains
Patients with one or more of the above symptoms should immediately consult a specialist doctor. Examinations help detect the source of the problem and decide on the appropriate treatment.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Lung Infections
To understand the causes of lung infection, various examinations are available. In addition to X-rays, breath tests and blood samples help fully understand the disease. Once the diagnosis is made, simultaneous treatment is started.
If the infection source is bacterial, antibiotics are the essential treatment option. Antibiotics are administered in the dose and manner recommended by the physician. It is also necessary to use it regularly. However, advanced diseases may require intravenous antibiotics administration.
Patients with breathing problems are treated with oxygen support. The healing process of lung infections varies depending on the strength of the person's body resistance and general health status.
Additionally, maintaining balanced nutrition and healthy living conditions affect the treatment process. In some cases, the patient recovers quickly, while others recover more slowly. The reasons for such cases are:
- Alcohol and tobacco addiction
- Unbalanced and unhealthy diet
- High fat-containing diet
- Irregular use of antibiotics
- Chronic diseases
- Advanced age
- weak immune system
- Poor hygiene conditions
For a more effective treatment in the healing process, it is necessary to improve living conditions and consider the physician's recommendations.
These recommendations include quitting harmful habits, drinking water, and maintaining a balanced diet. In addition, regular exercise and taking care of their health also shorten the recovery time.